has called on South Dublin County Council (SDCC) to extent it’s Mattress Amnesty to allow for other Large Household Waste products to be dropped off; in an attempt to address the serious amount of illegal dumping that is being carried out in the county. Deputy Curran said; “Since the introduction of domestic waste charges, the incidence of illegal dumping has increased year on year. It is a blight on the landscape in our towns and villages, urban and rural. Household junk collections which were previously provided by SDCC were discontinued in 2007/2008. SDCC are currently applying for funding under the DCCAE’s AntiDumping Initiative Fund 2019 for another Mattress Amnesty to be implemented in 2019.

900 mattresses were dropped off at approved locations in 2018.

Following from the success of this initiative I am calling on SDCC and the Minister for Climate Action and Environment to extend this initiative and provide the necessary funding to allow for other large waste products to also be dropped off as part of an Annual Large Household Waste Amnesty at designated drop off locations. Other items might include large furniture, washing machines, fridges etc. I understand that the junk collection services that were previously provided free of charge by South Dublin County Council at a cost of €500,000 per year and at a frequency of once in three years to homes located in RAPID areas and once in every five years to all other areas, was costly and not frequent enough.

An Annual Amnesty would also tackle the issue of rogue waste collectors doing door to door collections only to illegally dump this waste.

This funding must ensure that initiatives to provide greater flexibility for local authorities to offer free services can get up and running, especially in disadvantaged areas. “I refer to civic amenities available for one-off use. Local authorities used to collect large household items once or twice a year, but that has largely been done away with in many parts of the country. Initiatives of that type need to be reintroduced if we are to prevent largescale illegal dumping of washing machines, fridges, furniture and mattresses.

Rather than paying for the clean-up afterwards, there should be a pro-active programme, as part of which local authorities would provide that service,” concluded Deputy Curran.

Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland and their Dublin members, Hope Beer (Kilbarrack), Jack Smyth (Temple Bar), Porterhouse Brewing (Dublin 2), Priory Brewing (Tallaght) and Rascals Brewing (Inchicore) are hosting the annual ‘Indie Beer Week’, which will start on 22nd May, celebrating the best of local, independent craft beer. This is the third year and they will are also launching their new symbol, which will certify that a beer is a genuine independent craft beer as opposed to mass-produced fakes. The centrepiece of this year’s celebration will be the launch of the symbol to distinguish genuinely independent craft beers from mass-produced global beer brands available in the hugely competitive marketplace today.

The Independent Craft Brewers, which is made up of over 30 microbreweries, will host a weeklong series of nationwide celebrations including the independent breweries of Dublin. Commenting on the launch, the Chairperson of the Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland (ICBI), Peter Mosley, said: “This year, we are introducing to people in Dublin a striking symbol which will help consumers recognise a genuine independent artisan beer from a mass-produced, high volume, fake craft beers produced by global giants. The Independent Irish Craft Beer symbol will guarantee that a beer is made in a genuinely independent microbrewery in Ireland.

As our organisation has been growing in such large numbers, with now 33 independent craft brewers as members, we are unveiling the symbol to the public to promote independent and genuine microbrewers.” Peter added: “Indie Beer Week is also the start of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the brilliant breweries in every corner of Ireland who employ talented young professionals with a massive emphasis on producing quality and independent beers. Our weeklong celebrations will encourage people in Dublin to discover their local independent breweries and to taste and explore particular beers unique to Dublin.” This year’s Indie Beer Week will feature a weeklong nationwide celebration of truly independent Irish brewing.

Hope Beer, Jack Smyth, Porterhouse Brewing, Priory Brewing and Rascals Brewing will involve their local pubs, restaurants or off-licences for tastings, live music and local food to highlight their dynamic range of truly unique and genuine beers. Some breweries will open to the public and welcome their community for tours and tastings.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 4 APPEAL FOR MISSING POSTERS SO THEY CAN BE RECYCLED Local election Tallaght Central candidate Laura O’Reilly is appealing to residents to return missing posters. O’Reilly added “I really wanted to go poster free but as a first time candidate I needed to get my face out there as People Before Profit do not have the funding for billboards or buses.

People Before Profit do not have the backing of corporate donors. People have very kindly donated money out of their own pocket to help me buy these. Friends helped me put them up. All my posters are compliant with ESB guidelines and I have respected the boundaries set out by Tallaght ACA in the village.” In recent weeks some of the candidate’s posters have gone missing and an incident where a poster was removed with a hacksaw at the end of April, which is illegal. She added “My posters will be recycled and reused by People Before Profit after the election, however the missing ones more than likely will not be.

They will more than likely be dumped in general waste bins or in public spaces. As an individual who is passionate about climate change I am urging members of the public to let me know if my posters are down or if they have them.” You can contact Laura via Facebook, Twitter, PBP head office or by calling 0874135347. ‘A MORE POSITIVE INCLUSIVE COUNTY’ The Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC) Cllr. Mark Ward officially launched SDCC’s Integration Strategy 2019 – 2023 ‘A More Inclusive County’. In his speech Mayor Ward acknowledged the “positive contribution to South Dublin” that the migrant communities “have already made and will continue to make”.

The Mayor went on to say that “the foundation of any strategy must be the lived experience of those it is intended to serve” and that “this is not just a strategy for South Dublin County Council alone, it is for the County” that “the onus is on us all as partner organisations and individual citizens, to ensure the actions identified in ‘A More Inclusive County’ are realised”.

Cllr Deirdre O’Donovan, Chairperson of the Social and Community Strategic Policy Committee spoke about ‘A More Inclusive County’ and how the each of the “56 actions listed under the five strategic themes of: (1) Inclusive Communities (2) Lifelong Learning (3) Enterprise and Employment (4) Health and Wellbeing and (5) Inclusive Service Delivery have clearly identified ‘success indicators’ so that we can ensure these actions are progressed and targets set are achieved”. Cllr O’Donovan described the strategy “as not a standalone document. It must underpin our approach to service delivery and inform our plans and policies across the Council to ensure there are equal and fair opportunities for members of migrant communities.” She also acknowledged “the role of my colleagues on the Social and Community Strategic Policy Committee have played in developing this Policy.

As a committee of the Council, our role is to advise and assist the Council in the formulation, development and review of policy. The Committee has completed its task diligently in this regard.” Finally, Daniela Jurj, a volunteer with the Romanian Community of Ireland and member of the South Dublin Migrant Integration Forum spoke about the importance of the strategy for new communities in South Dublin and also her experience living and integrating into Ireland since moving here 18 years ago. She commended South Dublin County Council’s Social Inclusion Unit and the work of the South Dublin Migrant Integration Forum.

She added she is looking forward to South Dublin County Council’s annual Flavours Food Festival, Health and Wellbeing Week and Social Inclusion Week and the opportunities for members of migrant communities to take part.

The evening was a great success with entertainment from a local choir from MacUillaim Estate known as the “Soulworks Singers” and a special performance from Nia Thekkumthala, a talented young dancer from India, who performed a traditional Indian dance. Soulworks Singers pictured at the launch

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 5 DOMINIC’S ACTIVE MEN’S SOCIAL Dominic’s Active Men’s Social or DAMS are a group of retired men who have formed a social club based in the Dominic’s Community Centre for men 55yrs old or older. The club is going from strength to strength over the eight years and has 45 members.

They organise trips out to places of interest such as Kilmainham Gaol, Waterford Crystal, Belfast Titanic Experience, Malin Head Co. Donegal, the Ring of Kerry, Wexford, Waterford, Galway, Kilkenny City, The Aran Islands, and many, many other places. And also organise free educational courses which are funded by the ETB (Formerly known as the VEC) such as Irish and Computers. They also use the wealth of expertise from within their own membership and organise classes on Digital Photography, Photoshop, Computers, and Guitar; All these classes are free to members.

There are ten laptops and free Wi-Fi available to the group in the Dominic’s Community Centre for PC courses. The club also have a Choir which won the Navan Choral Festival in 2018. The Choir meets for rehearsal every Tuesday evening at 7pm in the Dominic’s Community Centre. Playing games regularly Pitch & Putt, Long Mat Bowls, for which they have just acquired two new bowling mats and equipment with the help of a grant from SDCC. Thanks to Father Larry Collins and School Principal Seamus Vaughan they play our indoor games in the St Dominic’s School Hall every Wednesday evening between 7pm and 10pm.

The group has five members on the South Dublin Team that won the “National Go for Life Games” in 2018. Other activities such as playing “French Boules” on their own Boules Court adjacent to our Community Centre with the help of SDCC and they organise walks when weather permits.

For more infromation email activedominics@gmail.com or phone the club chairman Terry Fayne at 0894756420 or Club Secretary John McGourty 0872755934. Or alternatively just drop into their meeting any Friday morning in the Dominic’s Community Centre at 10am. You can drop in without any obligation and have a cup of tea. Why not check us out on our own website www. dominicsmen.wix.com/ dams. Dublin South West Sinn Féin DUBLIN TALLAGHT SOUTH TALLAGHT SOUTH TALLAGHT SOUTH TALLAGHT CENTRAL TALLAGHT CENTRAL LYNN BOYLAN PADDY HOLOHAN LOUISE DUNNE DERMOT RICHARDSON CORA MCCANN CATHAL KING TAXI DRIVER ATTACKS HIGHLIGHTED Seán Crowe T.D.

has called on the Ministers for Justice and for Transport to meet with representatives of the taxi Industry and An Garda Síochána to discuss ways of stopping a spate of new attacks on taxi drivers.

Crowe said: “There has been an upsurge in vicious attacks on taxi drivers in recent weeks and it is now happening on an almost daily basis. Taxi drivers have recently been stabbed, robbed, had syringes put to their necks, had equipment and cash stolen, been hijacked, had their cars burnt out, and many have been left lying unconscious at the side of road. One driver even had a noose put around his head. “A 73 year old Dublin taxi driver was beaten up in Tallaght. He was stabbed and his car was later found burnt out. These attacks follow other high profile assaults on delivery drivers. Clearly new measures and additional resources to stop these attacks need to be adopted before a driver is killed.

Recently in the Dáil I appealed to the Ministers to meet with taxi drivers and their representatives to look at practical measures that could be introduced to reduce attacks and safeguard drivers. “Insurance costs for a taxi has trebled this year and if a cab is burnt out or a driver is injured there is no financial safety net applicable. In many cases traumatised and injured drivers have to return early to work to pay bills, put food on the table, and keep a roof over their heads. “There have been reports in the media that some gangs were targeting taxi drivers through apps and based on their age or fitness profile.

If this is the case then this needs to be investigated and safeguards introduced. “I also asked the two Ministers to look at measures introduced in other jurisdictions that might help increase the safety of drivers. “While welcoming the statement from Minister Flanagan that An Garda Síochána are conducting full investigations into each recent case involving assaults and robberies, more needs to done to reassure taxi drivers and to reduce and eventually end this recent upsurge of attacks on men and women who are providing a vital service for our communities.”

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 6 BIG RED CLOUD PARTNERS WITH GUINNESS PRO14 Big Red Cloud have become a Match Official Partner of the Guinness PRO14 that will see the online accounts company take over the sponsorship space on the back of the referees’ jerseys. The eye-catching logo made its debut in the Guinness PRO14 Final Series. Big Red Cloud have also signed up as a sponsor for the 2019/20 season and will be a firm supporter of the Championship’s team of referees as the partnership promises to increase funding for the Match Official programme. Big Red Cloud are specialists in Online Accounting to businesses of all sizes and have over 25 years of experience in accounting, payroll and book keeping.

With over 75,000 customers in the Republic of Ireland, they are targeting the UK in the next phase of their growth which is why they have chosen to partner with the Guinness PRO14. Pictured (L to R): Nigel Owens, International Rugby Referee; Marc O’Dwyer, CEO of Big Red Cloud; Greg Garner, Elite Referee Manager PRO14 Rugby; Dermot Rigley, Commercial Director of PRO14 Rugby; Marius Mitrea, International Rugby Referee.

NATIONAL CHILD & FAMILY SUPPORT WEEK Tusla - Child and Family Agency launches National Child and Family Support Week on May 13th 2019 to promote and celebrate the support services that Tusla provides to parents, children, young people and communities right across Ireland as part of its Prevention, Partnership and Family Support (PPFS) programme. This follows on from a successful inaugural week in 2018, will feature special public events across the country where parents and young people can find out more about services offered by Tusla. Tusla, together with its funded partners, supports families all over Ireland by providing an accessible, safe and positive pathway through the different experiences that families encounter today.

This includes earlyintervention support programmes, parenting support networks, and evidence-based parenting guidance. Positive parenting practices create positive outcomes for €45K FOR COMMUNITY GRANTS SDCC approve over €45,000 in Community Grants for Lucan, Clondalkin, Newcastle, Rathcoole and Saggart. FG Cllr, Emer Higgins, has welcomed the allocation of over €45,000 in Community Grants to 16 clubs and groups. These include a wide range of groups, such as Clondalkin Rugby Club,Newlands/ Castle Park FC, Lucan Men’s Shed, Friends of the Camac, Commercials Hurling Club, Rathcoole Baton Twirlers, Clondalkin Global Garden St.Marys GFC, Clondalkin Men’s Shed, RathcooleCommunity Council and Rathcoole Boys FC.

The Community Grants Programme is aimed at providing financial assistance to Community children and young people. Tusla promotes parenting awareness, information and skills in a range of relevant areas that help to promote optimum health and development in children. On 15th of May from 10am -12.30pm an event to celebrate Collaboration and Family Support will take place in Tallaght Library. The event will be a collaborative effort between Tusla, the Child and Family Support Network, and the Drugs Task Force to celebrate collaboration and family support on the UN International Day of Families.

The key themes of the event will be families, parenting supports, support through recovery, cyber safety, keeping well, and services that are accessible to all when they’re needed. See a full list of events on www.tusla.ie/nationalchild-and-family-supportweek/.

and Voluntary Groups who are responding to locally identified needs within their communities. “This funding will greatly assist our community groups and clubs to continue running their teams and carry out their activities. The grants have been awarded to a diverse range of groups supporting young and old in our communities. Community spirit is alive and well across our county, some of these clubs are well established and some in their infancy. It is fantastic that we can offer financial support to help the clubs and groups to grow and flourish,” said Cllr. Emer Higgins.

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 7 MASSIVE SALE NOW ON Full supply and fitting service available for all areas of your home.

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 8 COUNCILLOR DISAPPOINTED WITH VIEWS TOWARDS RECYCLING Tallaght South Councillor Emma Hendrick raised a motion at the Tallaght Area Committee recently calling on the Council and Citywest Shopping Centre to find a suitable site for a bottle bank. Citywest Shopping Centre was given assurances that the site would be well maintained but refused permission to the Council to erect a bottle bank on their premises. Currently South Dublin County Council (SDCC) are exploring other options for the facilities. Cllr Emma Hendrick (People Before Profit) said: “It’s really very disappointing that the owners or management companies of Citywest Shopping Centre are refusing to place recycling facilities on their grounds.

There is a massive need for facilities to allow people to recycle bottles and cans in Citywest. Shops that sell these products should take some responsibility for providing accessible disposal of the waste and should have some corporate social responsibility. “Recycling is an extremely important part of looking after our environment and combating pollution and Climate Change. We need to think global and act local. I’d like to ask the management and owners of Citywest Shopping Centre to re-consider the request for recycling facilities and enter discussions with SDCC.” TURNING THE SOD ON 109 HOMES IN CLONDALKIN Cllr Charlie O’Connor on behalf of the Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC), officially turned the sod for a 109 unit residential development on the townlands of Kilcarbery and Corkagh Demesne, Old Nangor Road, Clondalkin.

The development, known as Corkagh Grange, will comprise of eight four bedroom houses, 71 three bed houses, 15 two bed apartments and 15 one bed apartments. Corkagh Pictured Left to Right: David Corrigan NDFA, Norman Higgins Sisk Living, Colm Ward, Director of Housing, SDCC, Cllr. Francis Timmons, Cllr. Charlie O’Connor, Danny McLoughlin Chief Executive, SDCC Sisk Living – Ivan McCathy, John Byrne, Kieran Colleran and Ted Rowe. Grange was approved under the Part 8 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) in September 2017 by elected members of SDCC. The completion of this development is expected to be towards the end of 2020 when single people and families will be offered the new homes from the Council’s Social Housing Waiting List.

Cllr. Charlie O’Connor, Chair of the Economic Development, Enterprise and Tourism Strategic Policy Committee said: “This is great news for families who need a home”. Mr Danny McLoughlin, Chief Executive, South Dublin County Council said: “This Council is delighted to be part of this new PPP Model to deliver housing which will see 534 new homes built across five local authorities and 109 homes in this county”. Mr David Corrigan, NDFA said, “For the first time ever, we are extending the PPP model which has successfully delivered high-quality roads, schools and healthcare facilities for the State to deliver social housing”.

Mr Norman Jennings, Director of Housing with Sisk Living added that they look forward to working with South Dublin County Council, the NDFA and Choice Housing Body to deliver this vital social infrastructure development in South Dublin.

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 10 INFLATA ZONE - IRELAND’S & ONE OF EUROPE’S FIRST INDOOR INFLATABLE THEME PARKS OPENS IN DUBLIN One of the first in the world, and Ireland’s only inflatable theme park has now opened! Inspired by the party craze that’s starting to take the world by storm, Inflata Zone, a state of the art €750,000 facility, opened in Dublin this week. With over 10,000sq/ft of inflatable fun covering the equivalent of 5 tennis courts, Inflata Zone is the next generation of kids’ party destinations. Adrenaline junkies aged 4 to 12 years of age can explore all ten zones where they can plummet to earth on a five-meter drop slide, climb, weave and crawl through an enormous inflatable obstacle course, let loose in a biff & bash zone and test their balance on the challenging stepping stones.

Bouncers can also scale to new heights on a climbing wall, burn off excess energy in an oversized open bounce area and much, much more! Designed for hassle free parties, Inflata Zone boasts six private party rooms catering for groups of up to 40, dedicated staff to manage each group and a chill out Café for parents to relax in. Now open, book your next outing at www.inflatazone.ie with prices starting from just €10 per person.

For more information visit: www.inflatazone.ie

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 12 Cavan Developments invite you to view the last few remaining 3 & 4 bedroom concert built homes in this current phase at Kilheale Manor, Hartwell Road in Kill Village this Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 12.30pm. New bungalows on large sites and situated at the end of a quiet cul de sac are very rare in today’s market but that what Kilheale Manor offers. Nestled away nicely between Rathcoole and Naas, it is located a 15-minute drive from the Red Cow roundabout and with the Luas line extending out as far as Citywest, it leaves another public transport artery available on route into the City Centre.

A new large modern primary school has opened in Kill catering for both boys and girls and secondary schools are easily accessible with private bus operators servicing both Rathcoole & Naas schools also.

These Homes are designed with the modern purchaser in mind, with features such as stylish fitted kitchens and all appliances included with extensive tiling. The option to choose a fireplace or a large LCD TV depending on taste and Master Bedrooms with En-Suites leaves plenty to grab the attention. All houses come with front and back gardens, which have LIMITED NUMBER OF NEW “A” RATED BUNALOWS REMAIN IN THIS CURRENT PHASE AT KILHEALE MANOR, KILL, CO. KILDARE become a feature in themselves nowadays, the front gardens are finished off with cobblelock paving providing parking for up to 2 cars.

There are also no management fees for the houses on this development which can come as a welcome relief to perspective purchasers in these current times.

Allhousesare“A”rated with Photo Voltaic panels coming as standard reducing your overall energy bills considerably. Kitchen, Bathroom, En-Suite walls and floors all have extensive tiling with very high quality porcelain ceramic tiles coming as standard. High quality wardrobes The Master Bedroom with En-Suite Kitchen area Buyers have the option to choose a Fireplace or a large LCD TV depending on taste TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST e-mail sales@cavandev.ie MMWard Auctioneers 045 856640 www.cavandevelopments.com Cavan Developments 045 878108. and fireplaces also come as standard, with heated towel rail and shower in En-Suite, while the Bathroom comes fully fitted with toilets, wash hand basin and a rectangluar bath to add the finishing touch.

Cavan Developments homes are built with reducing maintenance on the exterior in mind and with PVC Fascia and soffit and the walls being brick and dry dashed, this goes a long way to emphasising that point. Superior Sound Proofing is an integral part of Cavan Developments build and this is emphasised more than anywhere else on the party wall. Cavan Developments are an Award winning builder celebrating 40 years building new quality homes in Dublin and Kildare. Kill is a friendly, traditional, country village situated on the N7 and just fifteen minutes from the Red Cow and M50. Commuting to Dublin couldn’t be easier by car or bus.

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 14 HOW TO BUILD A STRONG PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP How important is the parent-teacher relationship? Building a strong parent-teacher relationship can seem like a difficult balancing act. However, with proper communication it can be simple. Remember your child’s teacher should be your first port of call for any issues. Going over a teacher’s head or grumbling about issues without any communication will lead to a soured relationship. Likewise, never agreeing with the teacher’s judgement will create tension and worsen communication overall.

This week we will focus on the “Do’s” when building a strong parent – teacher relationship.

Do Try to resolve issues with your child’s teacher first

As the person closest to your child’s progress, your child’s teacher is the best person to deal with the issues they may face. Don’t go over their heads. Not only can this sour the relationship but may result in an issue being miss-handled or made overcomplicated. Help your child to learn fundamental skills

Instead of spending every moment hammering in what your child has already learned at school, it’s often more beneficial to teach broader life skills so that your child is better able to participate and contribute at school Encourage your child to be responsible

Following on from our last point, responsibility is highly important in helping to build a strong parentteacher relationship. If your child can be trusted to clearly communicate information between you, the relationship will be much stronger. Get involved in your child’s learning

Keeping up to date with your child’s learning is always important. Not only does it allow you to assist Next time we will focus on the “Don’ts” If you have any concerns about your child’s progress in school, contact Kip McGrath to arrange a FREE educational assessment.

For a second time Orla Wallace is leading Team Barretstown in the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon to celebrate the life of her son Ben. Sign up today and help raise funds for children with serious illness Call Donna on (045) 864115 or fundraising@barretstown.org YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES MUST BE PROTECTED IN CLONDALKIN AND LUCAN John Curran TD for Dublin Mid-West has called on Minister Jim Daly to protect Clondalkin and Lucan Youth Mental Health Services in the area. Deputy Curran was speaking after a meeting recently with Minister Daly and his constituency colleagues Eoin O’Broin TD and Gino Kenny TD on the issue; “The HSE indicated that in late 2018 a decision was taken to integrate the Jigsaw services in Tallaght and Clondalkin.

This would result in a relocation to Tallaght of the Clondalkin based Youth Mental Health Services – Jigsaw. “Jigsaw provide a range of intervention mental health services for young people aged between 12 and 25 and are currently providing this service from a premises on Moorefield Avenue in Clondalkin. This Jigsaw branch services the areas of Lucan, Newcastle, Palmerstown and Clondalkin. “However, the HSE indicated that in late 2018 a decision was taken to integrate the Jigsaw teams and services in Tallaght and Clondalkin.

The intention would appear to be to improve the service by making it bigger and better; however I have outlined my serious concern with this decision to the Minister responsible for Mental Health.

Youth Mental Health Services are a vital service in our community and the Moorefield premises not only serves Clondalkin, but the greater catchment areas of Lucan, Newcastle and Palmerstown. Relocating will mean a loss of service, lack of visibility in the community for young people to enter the service informally and a lack of availability to already distressed and anxious young people who do not have the coping skills or the resilience to get on a bus to Tallaght to attend appointments.

The local community have fought hard for the provision of local mental health services in the area and to lose the service to Tallaght means that the services becomes centrally based in a location that is not accessible to people from Clondalkin, Lucan, Newcastle and Palmerstown. A decision like this would highlight a cut in services from our local community. “Minister Daly has committed to looking into this with the HSE. An upcoming meeting between Jigsaw and Community Action for Suicide on April 18th and a wider stakeholder meeting is coming up on May 8th; the Minister asked that we see how these meetings work out and if we still had concerns at that point he would meet us again.

I welcome his commitment and time on this matter. “Myself and Deputies O’Broin and Kenny stressed the need to have a 5 day a week permanent physical presence in Clondalkin and preferable in the current premises in Moorefield. During our meeting we also stressed the need for the current Adult Mental Health Services in Clondalkin to remain in their current location, above Molloys, until refurbishment works are completed at Steeple House in Clondalkin. The Minister committed to raising this issue with the HSE and he is to get back to us.

Last year Fianna Fáil secured an increased allocation of €55m for new mental health services as part of Budget 2019. This money must be used to increase staffing numbers in line with A Vision for Change and ensure that waiting times for Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services are greatly reduced. I hope to see that in the Clondalkin and Lucan areas we benefit from this increased funding and not get squeezed out of services relocating in Tallaght. “I will continue to follow up on this matter with my constituency colleagues, Eoin O’Broin TD and Gino Kenny TD”, concluded Deputy Curran.

VOTE # 1 WORKING TODAY AND THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW FOR YOU, FOR THOSE DEAR TO YOU AND FOR THOSE WHO COME AFTER YOU goc2@eircom.net NO TO POSTERS Councillor Guss O’CONNELL PC INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY -CLIMATE AMBASSADOR PALMERSTOWN FONTHILL AREA

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 15 MOTHERCARE BUZZ WITH BUMBLEANCE Mothercare announces BUMBLEance tour as part of multi-platform fundraising campaign, the BUMBLEance visits Mothercare Belgard store in Tallaght on Sunday 19th May celebrating the third year of their partnership. Mothercare supports the children’s ambulance service, a safe and comfortable transportation method for Ireland’s youngest patients, through a series of year long campaigns. The BUMBLEance tours all Mothercare stores throughout the year giving customers and their families the chance to experience the interactive children’s ambulance first-hand and see the wonderful service they provide.

BUMBLEance is the world’s first fully interactive Children’s National Ambulance Service, specifically designed for and tailored to children. BUMBLEance ensures the safe transportation of sick children between their home and paediatric hospitals, hospices, national treatment centres and respite centres nationwide. They also provide a unique and vital service through their Angel Trips, the final journey a child. Mothercare stocks the BUMBLEance Bee soft toy, with 100% of all sales going to the charity and there are BUMBLEance collection canisters at each till point.

Raising funds helps for the running of the service for example; a tank of fuel for BUMBLEance is €100, a new tyre for BUMBLEance is €150, new iPad for BUMBLEance is €300 - €700 or sponsor an Angel Trip is €400. For more information see www. bumbleance.com. RECENTLY CHANGED CITYWEST JUNCTION IS CAUSING ISSUES Sean Crowe TD recently contacted South Dublin County Council (SDCC) in relation to local residents concerns on the Citywest Roundabout which is now a junction with traffic lights. In a reply received SDCC confirmed the following “The junction was identified to be upgraded to a pedestrian and cyclist friendly junction under the Adopted Fortunestown Local Area Plan in May 2012 (objective AM10).

The works took 37 weeks to complete with a cost of €1.1.Million plus vat.

It was expected that the improvements would help traffic flows at peak times. The design of the junction will help reduce speeds and provide a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists. SDCC will be commissioning traffic and drone surveys of the area to assess the impact of the works and will continue to monitor the junction. The SDCC traffic section will amend the traffic signals timing if necessary.” Crowe commented “Local residents complain they can’t get out of their estates in the mornings and the promised traffic survey needs to be carried out urgently.

The biggest challenge facing SDCC is that many residents have lost confidence in their road engineers and will argue quite convincingly pointing to recent examples such as the Orlagh Roundabout and the traffic markings at the Kilnamanagh Shopping Centre - Mayberry Road, that these proposed roundabouts and road upgrades to supposedly include cycle and pedestrian paths are in fact making commuting more hazardous and delays even worse.” PROTECTION OF IRISH NEUTRALITY MORE IMPORTANT NOW THAN EVER MEP for Dublin Lynn Boylan has said it is now more important than ever that Irish Neutrality is protected.

Speaking at the publication of Sinn Féin’s policy document on the subject, Ms Boylan said: “Britain is one of the most prominent countries in opposition to the increasing militarisation of the EU. “Britain leaving the EU has been seen by those such as Angela Merkel, Jean Claude Juncker and Emanuel Macron as a green light to drive through plans for an EU army. “Everything is now being set out to align ourselves around this military alliance, and that is why it is more important now than ever that we have neutrality enshrined in the constitution. “It is also crucial that we have MEPs who are going to resist further EU militarisation and increases in military expenditure.

Sinn Féin in government would further oppose the establishment of an EU Army at EU Council level.” DISCOVER THE GREENWAY 1 Night Bed & Full Irish Breakfast with a Main Course in The Met Bar From Only €65 per person sharing Also Enjoy: Complimentary car parking, Complimentary WiFi & Bike Storage Available ESCAPE TO THE CITY 1 Night Bed & Full Irish Breakfast, with 2 Course Dinner in the Met Bar-Café From Only €70 per person sharing 2 Nights Bed & Full Irish Breakfast with 2 Course Dinner in the Met Bar-Café From Only €120 per person sharing Take a beautiful journey to Waterford – where your next Adventure begins! From the City to the Sea, with the Mountains, Rivers and Epic Tales in between.

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 16 PALMERSTOWN BUSINESSWOMAN LEADS THE WAY ON TACKLING PLASTICS Local businesswoman Bushra who runs the Zafran 5-in-1 takeaway in Palmerstown Village has come up with a new invention to tackle single use plastic cutlery. The Outlery set of cutlery is a portable cutlery set made of metal which can be screwed together for use and then tucked neatly away in its metal box. In order to start producing the metal cutlery sets she is launching a Kickstarter fundraising campaign to raise capital for the next stage.

Bushra was inspired to go plastic free by her children who go to school locally and have been learning about the devastating effects of plastic pollution on our environment. Bushra has been working with Clondalkin councillor Madeleine Johansson and Kellie Sweeney from People Before Profit following a campaign to encourage local businesses to go plastic free. Bushra said: “I have been running a Take-Away in Palmerstown for the last couple of years. With the recent surge in news on how plastic is wreaking havoc to the environment, I was guilty of contributing to it by giving a set of plastic cutlery away with every order.

I started working on a solution that was convenient, hygienic and eco-friendly. My kids Taha and Aliza who are in grade 4 and 6 respectively at St. Ultans Primary School helped me all the way in brainstorming because they too were aware of the problem of plastic from their school. It was after 8 long months that I was finally able to get the production samples in my hands. I’d also like to applaud Cllr Madeleine Johansson for creating awareness in Palmerstown and encouraging business owners to minimize the use of plastic. People Before Profit representative for Lucan Kellie Sweeney is also playing a critical role in rallying the community and educating them about the damage plastic is causing.

The meetups arranged by Kellie and Cllr Madeleine have helped me a lot in taking Outlery from an idea to a reality. We are launching a Kickstarter campaign on 7th May at 3 PM Irish Time. Together with Cllr Madeleine and Kellie, I am hoping to make it a success and get Outlery in the hands of as many as we can.” Cllr Madeleine Johansson commented: “I recently met Bushra and was truly inspired by her enthusiasm to reduce single use plastics, particularly in the takeaway industry. It’s great to see local small businesses leading the way on this issue. I would like to encourage the local community to get behind Bushra’s initiative.” People Before Profit representative for Lucan Kellie Sweeney said: “I have been part of organising a Plastic Free Lucan initiative together with local residents and we are looking for more local businesses to get on board.

The biggest contributors to plastic pollution are large multi-national corporations, but by taking action locally we can put pressure on big business to follow the lead.” Information on Outlery can be found at http://www. outlery.com Pictured Cllr Madeleine Johansson, Taza, Bushra, Aliza and Kellie Sweeney at Zafran 5-in- 1 Takeaway in Palmerstown Village.

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Visit www.newsgroup.ie 18 The current model of the standard Reanult Megane has been on sale since 2015, but we had to wait a lot longer for the Renaultsport (R.S.) model.

However, when it finally arrived in 2018, it turned out to be well worth the wait. While the, previous generation, three-door coupe body-style has been replaced by a fivedoor hatchback, the Megane R.S. has the same mix of ingredients to make it a hot hatch front-runner. Striking Design; Visually, the Renault Megane R.S. cuts a striking silhouette on the road. It’s squat stance, emphasised by bulging wheel arches, strikes a perfect balance between aggression and refinement, while sporty interior flourishes include an Alcantara steering wheel and deep bucket seats. Engine & Transmission; A new 1.8-litre direct injection turbo engine, with one of the best torque ratings in the category, is fitted to the new Megane R.S., and is shared with the stunning Alpine A110.

The chaindriven timing system boasts reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. Two gearboxes are available – a sixspeed manual transmission, and for the first time, a six-speed dual-clutch (EDC) gearbox. The EDC gearbox features gearshift paddles, Multi Change Down and Launch Control for ultimate driving thrills. Test Car; My test car was a Megane R.S. 280 EDC (automatic) finished in striking Volcanic Orange paintwork, and really made an impact no matter where I drove – from school children walking past when I was in traffic, to commuters waiting at bus stops, and fellow motorists sharing the roads with me.

The glorious ‘racy’ sound from the cars exhaust when in ‘R.S.’ driving mode was spectacular, and left nobody in any doubt as to the ability of this performance car. Standard ‘R.S.’ specification is extremely impressive and includes 18” RS Estoril gun metal grey alloy wheels with grey brake calipers, 60mm wider wings (compared to the standard Renault Megane), custom bumper with Formula 1-style splitter and air extraction system at the front, functional rear diffuser, central exhaust, side sills with flat base effect, R.S. Vision LED lighting signature, rear privacy glass, cruise control, R.S.

leather multi-function steering wheel, automatic lights & wipers, hands-free keycard, deadlocking, auto dual-zone climate control, Hill Start Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, electronic parking brake, ‘R-Link 2’ multimedia system with a 7” touchscreen, TomTom Live service with Western European mapping and a four-wheel steering system (4CONTROL), along with many other comfort, convenience and safety features. Exclusive Technology; Exclusive to the segment, the 4CONTROL technology delivers outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds. This electronically controlled set-up features actuators that can turn the rear wheels up to 2.7 degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels, or up to 1 degree in the same direction – this changeover happens between 60km/h and 100km/h depending on the driving mode chosen at the time.

The idea of this set-up is that it boosts agility at low speeds by more quickly pointing the nose of the car at the apex, while also increasing stability and grip when going faster. The independent steering-axis front suspension system has been completely redesigned. Made from light and resistant aluminium, it is more rigid, and offers ultimate composure. Terrific Performance; The glorious engine in my test car is MOTORING LIFE WITH ALL-NEW RENAULT MEGANE R.S. IS ‘REALLY SPECIAL’ capable of a 0-100km/h sprint in, a truly impressive, 6.0-seconds. Thanks to a power rating of 276bhp, and a healthy 390Nm of torque, a top speed of 255km/h is achievable (where permitted).

The stopping forces are immense, too, thanks to Brembo front brakes that have grown 15mm over the previous generation R.S. With a kerb weight of 1,407kg, the Megane R.S. can consume as little as 7-litres of petrol for every 100kms driven on a combined driving cycle, while a CO2 emission figure of 158g/km leads to annual road tax of €750.

Driving Dynamics; On the road, the all-new Megane R.S. is blessed with sharp and engaging handling prowess, strong performance, and excellent driving dynamics. Adaptive dampers are fitted as standard, so you can relinquish the stiff ride upon request, and make this R.S. model as comfortable as the standard Megane. The EDC (sixspeed dual clutch) transmission in my test car reacted immediately to my every command, and made the car so easy, and enjoyable, to drive. The cabin of the Megane R.S. is visually identical to that found in the standard Megane, with the exception of sports front seats with alcantara upholstery and red top-stitching, a unique R.S.

steering wheel, and aluminium foot pedals. All controls are logically laid out and within easy reach, allowing the driver to concentrate on the road ahead. All of this ensures that the Renault Mégane R.S. 280 is a practical car that could be used every day.

Pricing & Verdict; The all-new Renault Megane R.S. is priced from €41,995 (ex-works), while my, EDC-equipped, test car specification is priced from €44,995. With its performance car looks, practicality, and agility, the Renault Megane R.S is a sophisticated hot hatch that is a true contender in its class. This is a ‘Really Special’ offering from Renault. A fiveyear/200,000km warranty provides genuine peace-of-mind motoring. By Breda Corrigan

Visit www.newsgroup.ie 19 Are you thinking of selling but not sure of the value of your property? Are you unsure if this is the right time to sell? Contatct us for a FREE no obligation valuation & advertisement of your property - Today.

Fully Insured Northside Office Fairview Strand Raod Dublin 3 01 9039037 Southside Office Raglan Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 01 5136750 Mobile 085 7130028 Web www.profixroofingandguttering.com e-mail info@profixroofingandguttering.com SOUTHSIDE/NORTHSIDE COVERED EMERGENCY CALL OUT SERVICE ‘RUN FOR AUTISM’ IN CORKAGH PARK On May 26th at 11:00am the Run For Autism will take place in Corkagh Park. The event now in its second year, saw last 823 families participate in 2018, this year they hope for the same numbers. Presently there are over 700 participants signed up. Run for Autism is organised by a family and these events aim to bring a sense of happiness and strength to the autism community. Each one of the volunteers involved in ‘Run for Autism’ has their own personal connection to autism. Each participant will receive a jersey, medal and goody bag.

All funds raised go to the charity AsIAm https://asiam.ie/ who do incredible work for the autism community in Ireland. More information can be found here about the run, costs of entry, etc. https://asiam.ie/event/ sun-26th-may-run-for-autism-2019-corkagh-parkdublin/ €30K FOR FLORAVILLE LED UPGRADE “Following on from representations from the residents, SDCC is to begin the process of the LED lighting upgrade in the next 8 weeks.” said Cllr Trevor Gilligan. “Floraville is an estate that falls into the ‘pre-1990’s’ category for LED Upgrades and as such would not normally qualify due to the well documented ongoing technical difficulties with the upgrading of estates with this age profile.” “The work it will entail a considerable amount of additional infrastructural investment than would not normally be expected in an upgrade such as this, due to the age of the estate.

However, we believe that the benefits to the local community will justify the additional costs. We are proposing to commence the upgrade in the next eight weeks. The scheme will include Floraville Avenue, Floraville Drive and Floraville Lawn” concluded Cllr Gilligan. ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR IS WREAKING HAVOC FOR RESIDENTS IN TALLAGHT Figures recently obtained by Fianna Fáil reveal that public order offences and other social code offences increased in the area by almost 30% in 2018. Despite this, there are 88 fewer Gardaí policing in the district now than in 2010. Local Tallaght Cllr Charlie O’Connor commented, “It won’t come as much of a shock to locals that statistics have shown a rise in a number of crimes in our area.

Residents living in Tallaght have been forced to endure all sorts of hassle – whether it’s been attacks on supermarket delivery drivers dropping groceries or suspended Dublin Bus services due to anti-social behaviour. “The illegal use of scramblers and quad bikes continue to pose danger to public safety but with 88 fewer Gardaí, it’s no wonder that people are frustrated and don’t feel protected without a visible Garda presence. “Garda resources in our county are clearly not strong enough to deter and prevent criminality or anti-social behaviour. More and more incidents are taking place each week and rather than face it or feel intimated, residents choose to stay indoors.

That inevitably impacts negatively on the sense of community. “Tallaght is a densely populated urban town that has so much to offer. The ordinary, law abiding residents that call it home should not have to put up with disorder on their doorsteps or streets. “It’s only logical to consider that there could be a correlation between the reduction in Gardaí on the beat and the rise in some criminal offences. Tallaght has expanded since 2010, more people have moved into the area so why is it that rather than appoint more Gardaí to police, the number has dropped and that is unacceptable.” TEL: 01 451 9000 email: info@newsgroup.ie www.newsgroup.ie TO ADVERTISE IN THIS NEWSPAPER